Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, has said the internal crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is driven by ego clashes among its members—not solely the actions of its 2023 presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar.

Speaking during a media parley on Wednesday in Zamfara, Lawal stated:

“Everybody has their own issue; it’s not just about Atiku Abubakar—it’s beyond him. It’s an internal problem within the PDP, and we are making a conscious effort. I think it’s about people’s egos—everybody, no exception.”

When asked if he was personally contributing to the problem, the governor responded candidly, “Yes.”

Lawal, who made history as the first PDP governor elected in Zamfara, remained optimistic about the future of Nigeria’s democracy, despite deepening party divisions and allegations of federal interference.

“Yes, there will still be a free and fair election. That was what made me elected as governor of Zamfara State… with all the powerful people and the might of the Federal Government, I still emerged. So, I believe it’s possible. It’s a matter of time,” he said.

The PDP has faced increasing turbulence since its 2023 electoral loss, with defections to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) accelerating. Among those who have left are Governors Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), his deputy Monday Onyeme, former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, and several commissioners and lawmakers.

In response, the National Working Committee (NWC) convened an emergency meeting, while Atiku Abubakar launched consultations with key political figures, including Peter Obi and Nasir El-Rufai, aiming to form a united front against what he calls the APC’s drift toward a one-party state.

Meanwhile, internal divisions persist. Elder statesman Bode George has called for reconciliation ahead of the party’s 100th National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting, slated for June 30. However, INEC rejected the NEC notice, citing procedural irregularities—particularly the lack of a joint signature from both Acting Chairman Umar Damagum and National Secretary Samuel Anyanwu.

Further complicating matters, the powerful G5 faction led by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has renewed its call for the 2027 presidential ticket to be zoned to the South, intensifying the pressure on PDP leadership.

As the party grapples with defections, leadership confusion, and zoning battles, Lawal’s frank admission reflects a growing sense among insiders that resolving the PDP crisis will require collective humility, structural reforms, and difficult internal compromises.